“When I grow up, I want a job that doesn’t exist yet.”
We’re guessing you never said this as a kid. But a recent study by BAE Systems found that 47% of Generation Z (Centennials ages 16 to 24) believe they’ll have a career that’s not quite total reality today. Here are six top jobs that BAE futurists predict will be all the rage by 2040.
AI Ethicist
As manufacturers increasingly lean on autonomous systems—especially in the military—the notion that mercenary robot overlords could take over the world is no longer a Kubrickian fantasy. It’s partly why a group of engineers, scientists, and tech leaders signed a pledge in 2018 against lethal autonomous weapon systems, aka killer robots. And it’s why we’ll need AI ethicists to weigh in on how humans morally design, construct and use robots and other artificially intelligent beings for the benefit of mankind.
Systems Farmer
These will be tomorrow’s scientists who use “chemputing”—advanced chemical processes— to grow mechanical parts such as macroscale multi-function aircraft parts, potentially creating bespoke aircrafts in weeks rather than years. These super-strong components will be able to sense, process and harvest energy—and could even be capable of self-repair.
Human e-Sources Manager
Forget a quaint one-on-one with your Human Resources department. These managers would regularly use performance-based wearables to measure data that analyzes your cognitive workload, wellbeing and performance. If they sense you’re getting sick or burned out, they can use medical indicators to offer occupational support or training to ward off stressors.
AI Translator
Turns out everyone needs a little training, even robots. AI translators would train both humans and their robot counterparts, helping everyone collaborate more effectively. This would include customizing the AI to a worker’s unique needs, as well as fine-tuning processes to correct both machine and human errors.
VR Architect
This role, which BAE predicts will primarily be used in aviation and automotive, will use virtual and augmented reality to monitor components and manage maintenance activities.
Automation Advisor
As an automated workforce increasingly becomes the norm in manufacturing, automation advisors will ensure regulations are being met and upgrades are being identified.